‍Top Sustainable Fashion Brands from Japan

Sustainability has become a buzzword in the fashion industry, and for a good reason. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries globally, and the need for sustainable fashion brands has never been greater. Japan, known for its traditional craftsmanship and innovation, has been at the forefront of sustainable fashion. We at WWorld will explore the Japanese Sustainable Fashion Brands that are making a difference in the industry.

Maito Design Works

Maito Design Works is a Japanese design studio established in 2003 by Maito Suzuki. The studio is a Sustainable Fashion Brand renowned for its innovative approach to design.

The brand’s unique and playful designs incorporate sustainable materials and production methods to create products that are both fashionable and eco-friendly.

What They Make

Maito Design Works’ mission is to protect the traditional techniques of Japanese weaving and natural dyeing while raising awareness of their importance. The studio uses recycled and organic materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes to create high-quality, plant-dyed weaved and knitted products.

Why We Love

In addition to apparel, Maito Design Works offers plant-dyed bags, socks, yarns, towels, and even plant-dyed buttons. The brand’s commitment to sustainability can be seen in their monthly natural dye workshops, where people can engage in the craft of natural dyeing.

TENNEN

Creating Plastic-Free, Recyclable Clothing

Since its launch in 2018, Tennen has been on a mission to revolutionize the fashion industry by creating plastic-free and recyclable clothing. Their aim is to produce 100% decomposable garments that do not harm the environment. To be a focused leader for Sustainable Fashion Brands

A key aspect of Tennen’s sustainability efforts is reflected in their clothing tags. These tags contain cottonseeds, encouraging customers to sow and grow their cotton plants, promoting a deeper connection with nature and a more sustainable lifestyle.

Tennen believes that change takes time, but they are committed to taking the necessary steps towards a more sustainable future.

What They Make

Why We Love

Sustainability is a key principle for Tennen. They believe that being kind to nature and people is essential in the fashion industry.

They acknowledge the challenges and embrace the continuous learning that comes with the journey to sustainability. There aim is to create products that bring happiness to all involved from the producer to the user but most importantly to nature. Whilst carefully addressing all areas of the fabric journey, starting from its humble beginnings as a seed to the final garment.

Through their commitment to being kind to nature and people, They hope to contribute to a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry as a whole.

LOVE AND SENSE

Love & Sense, a select shop dedicated to fair trade, has been championing sustainable fashion brand for over 15 years. Founded in 2006, the company has been bridging the gap between conscious consumers and skilled artisans from around the world.

Love & Sense’s journey began with its founder, Takatsu, who established a marketing company in 1991. Initially, he aimed to create a fulfilling lifestyle by proposing exceptional products, developing retail spaces, and handling PR. However, as the era of deflation dawned, the focus shifted to affordability, which left him feeling unsettled. It was during this time that Takatsu stumbled upon the concept of fair trade, which resonated deeply with him. Eager to learn more, he visited developing countries, where he witnessed the alarming exploitation and environmental degradation carried out in the pursuit of cheap production.

What they Sell

Breaking away from the charity-focused approach, Love & Sense made it their mission to curate products that are not only ethically made but also stylish. They collaborated with designers from both Japan and abroad to develop unique and refined items that customers can proudly showcase.

Their commitment to quality and design was recognized in 2014 when they received the “Special Award – Idea × Design” at the Social Products Awards, a first for a fair trade company in Japan.

why we love

When it comes to fair trade, the challenge lies not only in raising awareness but also in transforming it into a sustainable movement. Many people express interest in fair trade, but few actually make purchases. One of the main reasons for this is the lack of accessibility and knowledge about where to find fair trade products.

Love & Sense recognized this challenge and set two goals for themselves. The first goal was to create products that are not only ethically made but also aesthetically appealing. The second goal was to build trust among consumers, ensuring that they have access to fair trade products through reputable retail channels.

Hinoki

Hinoki is a renowned fashion brand that has gained significant recognition in the industry for its unique and innovative designs. The brand takes its name from the Japanese hinoki cypress tree, known for its durability and elegance, which reflects the core values of the fashion label.

Hinoki’s fashion collections are characterized by their minimalist aesthetic, attention to detail, and use of high-quality materials.

One of the key aspects that sets Hinoki apart from other fashion brands is its commitment to sustainability. The brand places a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices throughout its production process. From sourcing materials responsibly to implementing ethical manufacturing practices, Hinoki strives to minimize its environmental impact. This dedication to sustainability not only aligns with current consumer demands but also positions Hinoki as a leader in the industry’s shift towards more conscious fashion.

What They Sell

Hinoki’s designs are known for their clean lines, understated elegance, and timeless appeal. The brand focuses on creating versatile pieces that can be effortlessly incorporated into any wardrobe. Whether it’s a classic tailored suit or a simple yet sophisticated dress, Hinoki’s garments exude a sense of effortless style and sophistication.

In addition to its clothing line, Hinoki also offers a range of accessories that complement its fashion collections. From handcrafted leather bags to delicate jewellery pieces, each accessory is thoughtfully designed to enhance the overall aesthetic of the brand.

Why We Love

We love the Hinoki Photography, their ‘old school’ movie style images add depth and creativity. Its designs have been featured in prestigious fashion magazines and worn by influential figures in the entertainment industry. The brand’s success can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation.

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